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The Calling releases statement on frontman's attack

The Calling frontman Alex Band is clarifying a few of the rumors surrounding the attack that he says left him "near death." In a statement released by the group, he insists that the story is not a hoax and says speculation that the incident was drug-related is "categorically false."

Band says he was attacked early Sunday morning by assailants who beat him with a baton, pointed a gun at his face, and demanded he hand over his "Hollywood money." Band claims he told his attackers that he was "about to be a dad," which, apparently, is the only reason they let him live. The suspects reportedly said they "don't kill fathers" before leaving Band at a local railroad track in Lapeer, Michigan.

According to the release, the rocker suffered a fractured lower spine, three broken teeth, a bruised side and stomach, and cuts to his chin that required 15 stitches. Police say the attack remains under investigation.